Many of our Sydney families are familiar with the magic of Vivid – the time of year when the city comes alive with dazzling lights, vibrant projections, music and ideas. This year, that magic took on an even deeper meaning, as some of our Bear Cottage families had the chance to be a part of it.

Thanks to a partnership between Vivid Sydney and the Sydney Children’s Hospitals Foundation, members of the community were invited to submit their original artworks to be projected onto the historic Clock Tower in Circular Quay. Entrants were invited to let their imaginations run wild and transform the facade with their own piece of art. From hundreds of submissions, just 150 were selected to light up the city during the festival. We were excited to get involved!

On a busy Sunday, Bear Cottage’s Art Therapist, Judy, held a creative morning with three of our families. Paintbrushes were dipped, colours swirled and imaginations soared as the children and their parents each created a unique piece of art inspired by this year’s theme “Dream”. This theme invited people of all ages to explore the power of imagination and celebrate the limitless possibilities of dreams.

For Brendon, the experience was especially meaningful. With the help of his mum, who designed a clever tool to help him hold a brush, he was able to fully take part in the fun and bring his dream to life on paper.

We are thrilled to share that the artworks created by Brendon, Millie, Maisy, Ambreen, Mohammed, Khadeejah, Aishah and Abdullah were among those selected for display. Their beautiful pieces lit up the ASN Clock Tower during the third week of the festival.

Sadly, just a month after the artworks were completed, one of the children who had participated died at Bear Cottage. Knowing that her artwork had been selected and shared with the city in such a powerful, public way, has provided a lasting legacy and a beautiful reminder of her creativity, spirit and joy.

Congratulations to our talented young artists and their families – your dreams have truly lit up Sydney.